The little egret, egretta garzetta, is also known as the lesser egret (and is related to the great egret). They measure 21.6 to 25.6 inches (55 to 65 centimeters) long and weigh anywhere from 10.6 to 19.4 ounces (300 to 550 grams). They also have an impressive wingspan, measuring 34.6 to 41.7 inches (88 to 106 centimeters) from wingtip to wingtip. This bird has pure white feathers, a long s-shaped neck, black legs, yellow feet and a dark, stabbing bill. They also have either red or blue skin on their faces.
The little egret can be found in southern Europe, southern Asia and Africa. Smaller populations can also be found in Australia. They are never far away from water and will often inhabit wetland areas such as mudflats and marshland. They may also be seen hunting in small streams or tidal estuaries. This animal will make its nest in a variety of places like trees, bushes, woods, swamps, marshes, dry open country and even on sea cliffs. They do most of their hunting during the day and communicate by making various croaking bubbling calls.
The diet of a little egret consists of fish, insects, crustaceans, reptiles and amphibians. When hunting for fish, they will walk through (or stand perfectly still in) shallow, open water and search for potential prey. Once something edible has been found, this creature will stab its victim with its bill and then proceed to swallow it whole. They are highly dependent on their vision while hunting. If the water is not clear, then it will be much more difficult for them to catch something. If this animal feels threatened, it will let out a harsh, alarm call to warn others in the area to stay away.
Breeding season for the little egret takes place at different times depending on location. Those in Europe and Asia will breed during the spring and summer while the more tropical-based populations have their breeding season coincide with the rainy season. During this time, breeding adults will develop 2 long, slender nape plumes as well as beautiful gauzy plumage around the breast and back. They will nest in mixed or single-species colonies. Breeding pairs will defend a small territory that extends 9.8 to 13 feet (3 to 4 meters) around the nest. Females will lay 3 to 6 eggs and both parents will take turns incubating them. The little chicks will hatch from the eggs after 20 to 25 days of incubation. They will learn how to fly about 4 weeks after they hatch, and will remain with their parents for another month before leaving them.
As a whole, the little egret is not an endangered species, although in Australia its status varies from state to state. Disease, eating fish that may contain poisonous chemicals from farmers, and the loss of their natural habitat are all things that have and will continue to negatively affect this creature. Hopefully, this little animal can overcome its obstacles and rebound where it needs to. After all, such a unique species of bird deserves to live and prosper for future generations to see.
Works Cited
“Little Egret (Egretta Garzetta)” 16 June 2011
“Little Egret” 16 June 2011
“Little Egret (Egretta Garzetta)” 16 June 2011
“Little Egret” 16 June 2011
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